Ah, university life! The magical place where we constantly balance academic wisdom, social adventures, and caffeination. Whether we’re biking for our life to a 9 AM lecture or claiming our spot at the canteen, the backpack is our best companion!

I asked my fellow students what essentials they always have in their bags and here are the top answers and some more things that you can take inspiration from, complete with a splash of humour and a touch of real-life survival skills.

1. Laptop (or Tab)

A.K.A: The Lifeline

No notes? No problem! Until this baby runs out of battery. Whether you're "taking notes" or conveniently streaming a show or a game between lectures, it’s essential.

Pro tip: Don’t forget the charger unless you enjoy biking back to your place in this weather.

2. Notebook & Pen

The Backup Plan

Our low-tech heroes for when the laptop crashes mid-lecture or the professor bans tech! Take notes of what your professor says, scribble or doodle – your pick.

3. Snacks 

Brain Fuel & Hanger Controller

Have you been in this situation? — A completely silent class and suddenly you hear your stomach growling like a monster. EMBARRASSING… I have been there way too many times. Understandably, some days there’s not always time to have breakfast so a pack of nuts, apples, bananas, or trail mix can transform you from a hangry goblin back into a human being. Plus, no embarrassing mid-class stomach rumbles!

4. Water Bottle and Mug

Stay Hydrated or should I say Cry-drated

You know it’s important, and it looks super serious when you sip thoughtfully while your professor drops knowledge bombs. The most number of answers I got was ‘water bottle’ or ‘mug’, because we at the university are very mindful, very demure, & very environment conscious. :)

5. Headphones

Tune In, Zone Out

Whether drowning out library whispers and coughs or blocking out that guy in class who thinks *everything* is debatable, headphones = peace of mind. Plus a podcast or playlist to keep us sane. (Thank god!!!)

6. Chargers and Portable Chargers

The Lifesaver

For your phone, laptop, headphones, or that inevitable group member’s dead device during a project meeting… This is something I cannot ever forget to keep in my backpack! (Low battery is the enemy of our academic weapon.)

7. A Small Game

The Time-Pass

Ever had those days when all the classes had a 2-hour gap between them? Quick card games or a mini-puzzle keep your brain running between lectures—or can be great for making new friends!

8. Highlighters & Sticky Notes

Aesthetic Study Goals

Nothing says "academic weapon" quite like an explosion of pastel highlighter marks and sticky notes on your study materials. Plus, it makes organising chaos feel productive, even if it’s a mess

9. Hand Sanitizer

For the days when the tap water is colder than Antarctica

Campus surfaces: 50% mystery stains, 50% germs. Protect yourself, one spray at a time.

10. Gum or Mints

Breathe Easy, Social Butterfly

For all the coffee fiends out there – a breath of fresh air after downing your “last” cup of coffee. Your friends and classmates will thank you!

But also, have you ever taken out a pack of gum in a class without all your friends asking for a piece? This might just be the recipe to be everyone’s best friend. :D

~Bonus Items Students Carry~

Motivation, will to carry on, and a dash of crippling anxiety. These aren't in your bag but are always lurking nearby. Sometimes, they take turns showing up; usually right before exams or after binging a series instead of studying.

Remember: it’s totally okay to carry them; just be sure to lean on your friends, treat yourself to that extra snack, and take things one day (or one lecture) at a time.

Special thanks to everyone who gave us some fun answers!